Where to Buy Metal Cabinet Handles

Introduction

When renovating or building a new kitchen, selecting the right hardware can make a big difference in the overall look and feel. Cabinet handles and knobs come in a wide variety of styles, materials, sizes, and finishes to complement any design aesthetic. Metal is a popular choice for cabinet hardware due to its strength, durability, and classic styling. This guide will explore the ins and outs of purchasing metal cabinet handles, from design considerations to shopping tips. With the right information, you’ll be able to find the perfect metal handles to give your kitchen cabinets a stylish, finished look.

Where to Shop for Metal Cabinet Handles

When searching for metal cabinet hardware, you’ll find the widest selection from these sources:

Home Improvement Stores

Top home improvement chains like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards have a great selection of metal cabinet hardware from various brands. They offer convenient in-store shopping and online ordering. You can browse the selection on display and purchase individual handles or knobs as needed. These stores often run sales and specials on hardware.

Online Retailers

Browse online stores like Wayfair, Amazon, and Overstock for a wide variety of metal cabinet handles. Shopping online allows you to filter by finish, size, style, and price point to narrow down options. Be sure to check product details and reviews. Many retailers offer free shipping.

Hardware Stores

Hardware and building supply stores like Ace Hardware and True Value carry an assortment of metal cabinet handles and knobs for DIY projects. While the selection is smaller than big box stores, you can purchase just what you need. Specialty hardware stores may offer more unique vintage or rustic designs.

Cabinetry Showrooms

If you’re having new cabinets installed, visit cabinet showrooms to view metal hardware choices recommended to pair with the cabinet doors. Handle styles will complement the cabinet door profiles. Showrooms offer a curated selection of knobs and handles.

Online Design Marketplaces

Browse sites like Etsy, Houzz, and MyKnobs.com that offer artisan-made and unique metal cabinet hardware. You can find handcrafted, vintage, custom, and decorative pulls for a one-of-a-kind look. Be sure to check shop reviews.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Metal Handles

Keep these factors in mind when selecting the perfect metal handles for your kitchen:

Style

Consider the overall aesthetic you want for your kitchen – modern, traditional, industrial, minimalist, etc. Choose metal hardware that aligns with the style. Curves, arches, and intricate accents lend to traditional spaces, while straight, simple lines work well for contemporary rooms.

Finish

Polished chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, antique brass, and matte black are popular finishes for metal hardware. The finish should coordinate with faucets, lighting, and other metals throughout the kitchen.

Size

Measure existing holes or cabinet door width to determine the proper sizing. Handles typically come in lengths ranging from 3-5 inches. Depending on your cabinet style, you may want handles sized in proportion to the door.

Shape

Common metal handle shapes include rectangular bar, bow, and arched bail. Choose a comfortable shape based on your cabinet door style and ease of grasping and pulling. Consider straight edges for contemporary spaces, rounded shapes for transitional spaces, and unique shapes for more personality.

Weight

Look for solid metal handles with some heft versus hollow or lightweight hardware for a quality feel. However, very heavy handles can put unnecessary strain on cabinet doors over time.

Brand

Select reputable brands known for high-quality metal hardware that will hold up well over decades of regular use. Some popular brands include Amerock, Liberty, and Richelieu.

Budget

Metal cabinet hardware ranges widely in price from just a couple dollars up to $25 or more per handle based on the materials and design details. Set a budget before you start shopping to narrow down options.

Expert Tips for Installing Metal Cabinet Handles

Follow these professional tips for installing metal handles to get a flawless look:

• Carefully measure and mark drill locations so handles are centered and evenly spaced.
• Print out a template as a guide for drilling holes.
• Use a drill press for perfectly straight holes, or clamp a block to your drill for a guide.
• Drill holes slightly smaller than screw diameter to allow threads to grip.
• Insert screws in a test material like scrap wood first to check fit.
• Attach handles loosely before tightening to adjust positions as needed.
• Use a block of wood under handles when tightening screws to prevent marring finishes.
• Take care not to overtighten screws and strip cabinet door material.
• Finish with cabinet door bumpers for a clean, professional look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular finishes for metal hardware?

The most common finishes for metal cabinet hardware include brushed nickel, polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, antique brass, and matte black. The finish should be coordinated with other metals used in the kitchen design.

How do I determine the correct size handles for my cabinets?

Measure the existing handle holes or width of cabinet door to determine proper sizing. Standard handle lengths range from 3-5 inches. Handles should be proportional to the cabinet door size and style.

How much does metal cabinet hardware cost?

Prices range dramatically based on the material, style, and quality. Simple steel handles cost just a couple dollars while handcrafted vintage brass pulls can cost $25 or more per handle. Typically expect to pay $5-15 per handle.

Should cabinet handles match cabinet knobs?

It’s not required for handles and knobs to match, which provides design flexibility. Often mixing metals or finishes helps highlight different parts of the kitchen. Just be sure the hardware coordinates nicely.

What tools do I need to install metal cabinet handles?

You’ll need a drill, drill bits, screwdriver, template, tape measure, pencil, and potentially a drill guide or block of scrap wood. Take care not to overtighten screws and damage cabinet doors.

Conclusion

Installing new metal cabinet handles is an easy way to update the look of your kitchen. When selecting hardware, be sure to consider the style, finish, size, shape, weight, and brand to find the perfect coordinating pieces. Shop at home improvement stores, online retailers, hardware stores, and design marketplaces to browse the widest selection. Follow professional tips for measuring, drilling, and installing handles properly. Quality metal handles will give your cabinets a cohesive, stylish look for years to come. With this guide’s advice, you’ll be able to confidently choose beautiful metal handles to enhance your kitchen’s design.